Strasenburgh Planetarium

Since RMSC’s Strasenburgh Planetarium first opened its doors in 1968, generations of Rochesterians have explored the wonders of the universe under its dome—and exciting changes are on the horizon as we look forward to the next 50 years!

The Somaini Sculpture

“In gleaming, polished bronze and twisted rough metal, the sculpture, 17 feet high, stands for all time before the Strasenburgh Planetarium, symbolizing the expansive thrust of man’s wonderment of the Universe.

"It is the creation of Francesco Somaini, of Lake Como, Italy, internationally recognized sculptor who works only in metal – ‘the material of our time.’”

— From the program for the unveiling ceremony on September 19, 1970

The sculpture on the East Avenue side of the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium was added after the completion of our building. It was dedicated on the second anniversary of the Planetarium’s opening. The sculpture was commissioned specifically for the Planetarium and purchased with a gift from Mr. Emil Muller, who was chairman of the building committee for the Planetarium and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Rochester Museum & Science Center.

Click here for the website devoted to the career and work of sculptor Francesco Somaini.

Click here for the story behind the sculpture as it appeared in an RMSC press release that was issued when the commission was awarded to Mr. Somaini (before the sculpture was created).